I can't believe that people are so rude. You have made some amazing videos, pay no attention to the nasty remarks, You are such a gentleman you do not need to apologize. Thank you I enjoy your videos. Thank you.
Let’s be honest. We spend more time making modifications than we do camping so having a cheap stove to MacGyver over in the evenings is good clean fun! My favorite gear is the gear I have experimented with and modified. That’s the enjoy enjoyment of Bushcraft!! Thanks for the video. Well done and has me thinking… again.
Our family appreciates the revisit of a product review after it has seen extended use. Knowing how well it performed, any shortcomings, and the important DIY improvement(s) helps us to make informed buying decisions.
Definitely only a starter stove, but there are better starter stoves. As you said, this stove needs too many modifications to be really useful. I have smaller version of this stove a neighbor to use. Still have the larger version used mostly as small fire pit. Not too belabor the point, but my large Skyemac stove I only added a couple put stands to make it draft better. Skyemac was even less expensive also. Thanks for update video Mark!
Hello Mark. I had purchased this stove before your first video on it and by now have made all the suggested modifications you mentioned. It is my go-to stove. I would like to own a FireBox or similar but this works for me so I will use it till it or I give out. Thank you for continuing to provide these interesting videos.
Thank you for this Video. I have one of this stoves, mine came with a Solid piece of Metal that you slide underneath the lower grate, to catch the ashes. I like the idea about using the other grill you cut to lay over the bottom grate, to keep the wood in. I also found that if you keep the opening to the wind, it generates the heat to the top, heating your pot quicker. I collect the ashes to make a fire paste (from another Bushcraft video, I believe it is from James Bender). I myself so far like my little stove and thank you so much for the additional information to help make my experiences better with my stove!🥰
Hi Mark, your absolutely right, there are a few versions of this stove. the design of your particular stove is slightly different. Mine is identical in every way except the handles on mine are higher which makes them to protrude over the top of the stove allowing the handles of the grill to sit over the top which helps it stay in place. No notches needed. Mine works beautifully. The only modification I have made is a thicker ash grate, which makes the whole stove a lot more stable and rigid. Love you reviews, always look forward to your next ones.
I’m sad to see some people are so cruel! I enjoyed this video and got some great ideas for my stove. My version does allow me to lock in the side bars in order to hold the grate in place. I was trying to figure out how to use my alcohol stove with it and you gave me the answer. I have a ton of tent stakes laying around. Thank you!😊
You were spot on with your observations. The early stove has short carry Handless and the handles on the later stove are taller so do reach through the griddle. Great video 👍 cheers🍻
Another nice vid thanks. With the handles, you could easily get some stainless steel wire or welding rods and make new handles that are tall enough to lock the grill mesh. Another idea I had was to use a couple of steel ruler that are long enough to reach across the diagonals, and then put a slot in the centre of each ruler so they interlock at 90 degrees, then make the slots to fit across the corner of the stove. This way you could use any pot size from small to large. It may also make the stove a bit more rigid/stable.
I love your videos. I just watched this one this morning. You asked for suggestions, I have one. I hope this is a good idea. When you need a thin stick to use to elevate the stove inside. Knitting needles may be a good idea. They come in many sizes, The regular ones can either be 13 /2 inches long and have a head on top so they won't slide through. They also have one that is 9 3/4 inches long with a head. These come in many widths, from about number 6 to 8 might be good. They also have double-pointed needles with no head, they are 7". I often see these at second-hand and discount stores cheaply.
Hi Mark, No reply necessary, thanks for sharing. I immediately dug out my 140mm sq x 210mm tall model and the handle positions are high enough up, on the front and rear to facilitate them being used as locators for the removable grill (if desired). I have tweeked my handles to stay up, but they can be pushed down. The grill I have xways resting on the hinged sides, and may file locating slots in those side panels. Your model, has the handles set too low for them to be used as grill mesh locators. You are owed apologies. Take care, best regards Colin
Mark, I find that it helps to consider any budget item, whether for bushcraft use or a machine shop tool, to be a kit. It comes with most of the parts you need, but will likely need some additions or modifications to be what you really wanted. If you add a second set of notches for your high pot stands, outboard of the ones your friend made, it will improve the pot stability for the large pots. The current locations look a bit close together for that size pot.
Mark, I pulled my stove out again and looked at it carefully. I found that the handles on both sides do hold the top grate in place...I tried it out. The handles on the stove wall is smaller then the grate handles. When you set the grate on the stovetop, you then lift the two handles on the stove inside the handles from the grate. It is loose, but it keeps the top grate from sliding off the stove!🥰 The First time I used the stove I was wondering about the handles as well, and like you I put it off as a way to carry the stove. The top grate slid off as I removed the pot. But now that I watched your video, I pulled my stove out again to look at it, and it occurred to me that these handles are designed to hold the top grate in place. So to cut the notches was not necessary... I thought that was a brilliant idea. And then I figured it out 🥰
I did the same thing for the bottom of my stove…I agree that the bottom openings are to large…..so I had taken an aluminum realtor sign, cut it to fit and drilled many smaller holes….it’s light and holds pellets perfectly…love this little stove and been using it for a few years
I enjoy watching your videos about this stove, but since I have a 5 inch Firebox stove (and 2 Nanos) I have never felt the need to pick one up. Thanks for the video.
I have my firebox stoves, a regular snd the nano. They are my favs. I have one similar to the one you are reviewing here. It was cheap. It’s large, it’s heavy. It’s wobbly tho. But it’s ok. I prefer my gasification stove for most things that require boiled water. My large firebox stove to grill meat. The nano for hiking cuz it’s so light weight. I use my large firebox at home as a mini BBQ. And the gasification one to boil some rice to go with my meat. It’s nice to cook outside on a warm summer day that I don’t want to heat up the house.
Hello,I’ve just bought the same one under the TOMOUNT brand name,it doesn’t have any of the modifications but I’ll DIY them 👍 I like your ideas. The first thing I did with my new one was cut my finger - twice! - so sanding down the sharp edges was job no.1 What you say about the carry handles is correct. Regarding the candle lantern, you could cut a drinks can open and place it inside so the candle reflects off the cans inner surface,then fold it flat each time to store with the the stove. I haven’t tested it properly yet but it actually seems a really good value bit of kit 👍
No reply necessary, thank you for sharing. I have used your stainless steel rule idea (and give you credit for it), but on the top prefer corner to corner X pot supports, accommodates smallest to largest pots/cups. I was lucky, my stove has tall hinge nuckles, leaving gaps large enough to be able to use ala Firebox sticks (fashioned from ss tongs). Bought a square, sq meshed grill. Might drill Trangia burner support holes. Thank again. Take care, best regards Colin Not yet drilled
Nice video. Thanks. I have this stove and really enjoy it. It is usually my "campfire" when I go camping. One of the reasons I like to use it with the door open, is so I can feed in longer sticks. I clicked on your link and the stove shown on Amazon shows none of the modifications you mentioned. Also, my stove came with only 1 handle which I assume was for picking it up. To reduce the size of the fire grate, I cut a piece of expanded metal and that has worked well. I do like the idea of burning pellets so I'm going to modify it with the holes you described. I like to use carcoal too and I think the bottom holes would be a good rung for that. You said the holes were 1" apart but how far down from the top are the first holes? I also have a Firebox but I enjoy using this more. I'm wondering if you can lay the large billy down across the pot stand bars to bake with it. I find the pot stand bars used crosswise really annoying with the Firebox. Just a pain to line them up and get them hooked in. Fussy imo. In fact, I've gone back to using a Dutch oven for baking. Weight is not a problem for me and DOs are so much more versatile. In fact, when I used to backpack, no way would I even carry a Firebox for baking. I used a simple twig, alcohol, esbit stove for many many years and that worked super. Would be useful for canoe camping or motorcycle camping though. Thanks again for another great video.
Great job! You can turn over anything and make it work better! I would like to see a video on good starter gear. Maybe 2 price points. But that would probably call out all the trolls that love to challenge your opinion. Lol.
I started looking at the folding charcoal chimneys after making a stove out of a dollar store one a few years. The folders can be kind of expensive. Where did you get yours?
@@MarkYoungBushcraft Mark, I found the folding stove on eBay. If was charcoal starter, made for the Boy Scouts. It seemed it was a great fit for the Boy Scouts. I found this folding stove on Amazon. camping moon CAMPINGMOON Portable Stainless Steel Charcoal Chimney Starter MT-18
Morning Mark! Well, you know me. The only way to make it perfect is to throw it out and get a Firebox.😀. However it is really inexpensive, and I do agree that for someone who rarely camps, or doesn’t want to spend much, it’s hard to say no to this. And honestly, something foldable like that, that could do charcoal isn’t a bad idea. Just not enough surface area. As for all the people insisting on something that can’t be done, there’s plenty of UA-cam experts out there.
I had many various types of these backpacking wood stoves….to me this one of the best..expensive ones failed by not burning properly without modifications…the mid range ones are too small….this particular size is a perfect, burn’s efficiently if you place a a plate on the bottom with smaller holes for air intake and mine never warped after over 100+ uses (had massive heat with 2 foot flames). Plus I add made side skewer holders to cook skewered meats on the outside side of the fire box.. Only one negative for me and that is the weight…thankfully I’m a bigger person and the weight doesn’t effect me, but it is a little heavy for the size…
I bought this stove in the spring of 2020. By winter of 2020 it was burnt out. To be fair I used the stove heavily, The box itself was warped and a little loose, but was still functional. The mesh top had burnt out. I just looked at the stove on Amazon US. It has reduced in price by $4 since I last purchased it. Plus it is offered in your choice of the wire mesh top, a grill top, or a pot stand top. It did not have the holes in the sides, but I think that would be a worthy modification. I would use it to support a Trangia. I would buy the stove again, especially at the $24 asking price today. I would opt for the grill top. But I have migrated to Firebox Stoves. Those are bomb proof and I do not think I will be needing to replace them.
I drilled some large 1/2 holes about 3/4 down from the top on the 2 non hinged sides to increase ventilation when using the grill instead of adding pot stands.
Mark i have the smaller stove and you can use the handles for the top grate, but ive seen a bigger model of my small stove and the handles dont reach the top grate. It also think it depends on the factory that made the stove i believe your stove is taller above the wood feeding door than mine, so it can hold more fuel but because of that it lost the use of the handles for the grate.
G'day Mark, those handles; only thing I can think of is push them all the way in to allow the "legs" to spring clip onto the grate from the inside, I assume this is possible since it looks to have pressed out "hinges"; having said that, they dont look long enough for that either, (without further modification anyway), and with your simple notched solution ........ why even bother. I do like the door feature, but yep for feeding in solid fuel, agree too big a cavity, though for refueling an alcohol burner mid cook, gotta be a good thing. I wonder if a remote gas stove would fit inside, (door open for the hose and perhaps with it's legs and pot "arms" not fully deployed), for even more options ? @ the very least as a windsheild and as a bonus to funnel the heat and utilise the various pot stand and grill accessories. Cheers Duke.
@@MarkYoungBushcraft I'm actually suggesting a remote stove may well fit through the door too, with perhaps not fully deployed, (spread), legs/arms depending on internal dimensions of the box stove i.e. the legs would be captivated inside, fully deployed or not, and avail the benefits of a windshield, heat funnel and the grill. Being a remote design the canister sits outside, the door open facilitates the hose. Perhaps a stretch, but if it can be done, you needn't carry a specific windshield for a remote job and you have an inherent solid fuel option at the same time. See where I'm coming from ?
Instead of the stove, I bought their folding charcoal starter. It had about an inch and a quarter hole in one side. I used a Dremel to bring it up to about 3 inches. It works great. Similar to a rocket stove.
The earlier version had the handles slip inside to get out of the way of the feed door. The later versions had permanent handles that could swing up to hold the grate handle slots, locking the grate from sliding. I have both stoves.
I purchased this stove years ago on eBay. It came wrapped up in this blue plastic. Getting that plastic off was a pain. The stove legs came bent, the seller refunded me $2. Total cost was around $15. As to how the handles work. I thought the same as you. I have a larger, heavier version of this stove. I think I may have both versions of short handles that lock nothing down without a small piece of wire. I looked at the price of this stove linked to Amazon. I did not pay half of what the asking price is for the larger stove. No comparison to the Bushcraft or Firebox stoves. The nice thing about this stove, not much assembly is required.
I recall the blue wrap on some of my other stoves. Real pain is right. Yes, cheap and easy to use but not a Bushcraft Essentials or Firebox. Thanks for commenting
Very nice video. I think you do a great job of being very careful in your comments to avoid being bombastic or unpleasant, and to admit that other people may have different experiences and opinions about the equipment you review. I don't have a folding stove, but I would like to get one soon. Is there a stove you could recommend for, say, $50 or less? Thanks for your efforts in making these videos.
Thank you for your kind words. Other than the one in this video, you may not be able to find a hinged folding stove for $50.00; However, there are a number of collapsible stoves for that price like the Uberleben Flat Pack stove (I have a review). You may want to consider a DIY stove like the Ikea Hobo Stove I have a 3-part video). I do have a number of stove videos that may help you decide.
Your handles appear to be installed lower than the ones on my 2 stoves.. You could always fashion a pot hanger out of a coat hanger or something similar.
If you wrap some stainless window screen around your grate, it will keep your pellets from falling through and if you make it to where ut's just snug, it will help keep the stove from being so wobbly. And yes, you have to make sure to keep it clean. It is not solid stainless, it is plated carbon steel, which is why they warp so easily. On a budget, these are good little stoves but are going up in price so as to make other options just as viable. Also, I took off that ring and added a piece of wire bent at a double anlge to make it easier to open and close
@@MarkYoungBushcraft thanks! By the way, I ordered the stove in the video yesterday and it arrived this morning. Looking forward to trying wood pellets out and making mods to the stove.
the new ones of these are a lot different as you said, with the handle position and the added holes. they are a bargain for the weight and price you pay, and simple to set up it just pops open. other types for ultralight and such you have to put together every time you stop to cook. all in all its a bargain for the 15-20 dollars they cost and the years you will get out of it
There are 2 versions of this stove. Another version has the handles mounted higher up towards the top edge of the stove. This version will somewhat lock the grille in place. Careful of which stove you order!
A folding stove has the benefit of being easier to pack but I have never had a circular stove warp. I just have to find the right pot to store it in. Thanks for commenting
How about using metal tent stakes in the round "handles" to the ground to keep the stove from moving around? ? ???? Or tie it down with wires on a metal table. Or, hang it from a metal camp fire cooker tripod. Or hang from a tree. Or attach it to your backpack?
My friend you drilled holes, cut notches and had to bend a latch... Plus a different grate. You did the best you could with a poorly designed item. Don't let it bother! :)
i know its a bit late, i was looking on camping stoves and watching your video before finding what was wrong with your with this video ua-cam.com/video/HXNP3NrIRLE/v-deo.html
Hi Mark, Another great video I see & just last year, I bought that EXACT version of stove but in the Redcamp Large size !! I will send you a picture but whoever said, them handles can be used for stabilizer arms for the grill are MISTAKEN. My stove is new, just last year & in the picture u will EASILY SEE what's what. I bought it for charcoal grilling in my backyard. I live inside town & my neighbor's are VERY picky & whine ALOT about fires & smoke....... Everyone's A Critic. 💯🙄
I can't believe that people are so rude. You have made some amazing videos, pay no attention to the nasty remarks, You are such a gentleman you do not need to apologize. Thank you I enjoy your videos. Thank you.
Surprised me more than anything. Thanks for commenting
I have experienced the rude people myself!!!
Maybe it's in the water,or in cell phone signals,but people have changed lately.As always,high respects for your shows.
Let’s be honest. We spend more time making modifications than we do camping so having a cheap stove to MacGyver over in the evenings is good clean fun! My favorite gear is the gear I have experimented with and modified. That’s the enjoy enjoyment of Bushcraft!! Thanks for the video. Well done and has me thinking… again.
I do agree. I love tinkering to make "improvements" and then I feel the item is more mine. Thanks for commenting
Our family appreciates the revisit of a product review after it has seen extended use. Knowing how well it performed, any shortcomings, and the important DIY improvement(s) helps us to make informed buying decisions.
Glad it was helpful. Thanks for commenting
Definitely only a starter stove, but there are better starter stoves. As you said, this stove needs too many modifications to be really useful. I have smaller version of this stove a neighbor to use. Still have the larger version used mostly as small fire pit. Not too belabor the point, but my large Skyemac stove I only added a couple put stands to make it draft better. Skyemac was even less expensive also. Thanks for update video Mark!
I have looked at the Skyemac. Much more expensive here in Canada. Thanks for commenting
Great Woods Update Video On Your Stove Mark, Fair Price For This Thanks. ATB T God Bless
Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for commenting
Hello Mark. I had purchased this stove before your first video on it and by now have made all the suggested modifications you mentioned. It is my go-to stove. I would like to own a FireBox or similar but this works for me so I will use it till it or I give out. Thank you for continuing to provide these interesting videos.
I can understand that for sure. Thanks for commenting
Thank you for this Video.
I have one of this stoves, mine came with a Solid piece of Metal that you slide underneath the lower grate, to catch the ashes.
I like the idea about using the other grill you cut to lay over the bottom grate, to keep the wood in.
I also found that if you keep the opening to the wind, it generates the heat to the top, heating your pot quicker.
I collect the ashes to make a fire paste (from another Bushcraft video, I believe it is from James Bender).
I myself so far like my little stove and thank you so much for the additional information to help make my experiences better with my stove!🥰
I demonstrate the ash pan in the original video. I did see the fire past video. Interesting. Thanks for commenting
This mans voice, its like if butter and an angel had a baby.
Thank you for your kind words
Hi Mark, your absolutely right, there are a few versions of this stove. the design of your particular stove is slightly different. Mine is identical in every way except the handles on mine are higher which makes them to protrude over the top of the stove allowing the handles of the grill to sit over the top which helps it stay in place. No notches needed. Mine works beautifully. The only modification I have made is a thicker ash grate, which makes the whole stove a lot more stable and rigid.
Love you reviews, always look forward to your next ones.
I like the idea of a thicker ash pan. Thanks for commenting
I’m sad to see some people are so cruel! I enjoyed this video and got some great ideas for my stove. My version does allow me to lock in the side bars in order to hold the grate in place. I was trying to figure out how to use my alcohol stove with it and you gave me the answer. I have a ton of tent stakes laying around. Thank you!😊
Glad you found the video helpful. Thanks for commenting
You were spot on with your observations. The early stove has short carry Handless and the handles on the later stove are taller so do reach through the griddle. Great video 👍 cheers🍻
Right on. Thanks for commenting
Another nice vid thanks.
With the handles, you could easily get some stainless steel wire or welding rods and make new handles that are tall enough to lock the grill mesh.
Another idea I had was to use a couple of steel ruler that are long enough to reach across the diagonals, and then put a slot in the centre of each ruler so they interlock at 90 degrees, then make the slots to fit across the corner of the stove. This way you could use any pot size from small to large. It may also make the stove a bit more rigid/stable.
Actually, I will likely remove the handles as they really don't serve a purpose. A set of X cross bars do make sense. Thanks for commenting
Good modifications Mark , thanks for sharing , God bless !
Thanks for commenting
I love your videos. I just watched this one this morning. You asked for suggestions, I have one. I hope this is a good idea. When you need a thin stick to use to elevate the stove inside. Knitting needles may be a good idea. They come in many sizes, The regular ones can either be 13 /2 inches long and have a head on top so they won't slide through.
They also have one that is 9 3/4 inches long with a head. These come in many widths, from about number 6 to 8 might be good.
They also have double-pointed needles with no head, they are 7". I often see these at second-hand and discount stores cheaply.
I have not had anyone suggest knitting needles before. Great suggestion. I assume you mean metal ones, not plastic😅. Thanks for commenting
Honestly, I think that would make a great gift for a budding backcountry camper... 'Nuff said.
😉Thanks for commenting
Absolutely pro video mate.
I learned some skills today thanks to you and your buddies.
Glad you enjoyed the video. Thanks for commenting
Great Review Brother! Have a Great Weekend. We are getting a lot of rain here in South Carolina. May be heading North. Cheers.
Probably be snow by the time it gets here. Thanks for commenting
Thanks for another thorough review, Mark. Still haven't dropped the money for a Firebox. One day!
You won't regret it. Thanks for commenting
Nice video, thanks Mark
Glad you enjoyed it Thanks for commenting
Hi Mark,
No reply necessary, thanks for sharing.
I immediately dug out my 140mm sq x 210mm tall model and the handle positions are high enough up, on the front and rear to facilitate them being used as locators for the removable grill (if desired).
I have tweeked my handles to stay up, but they can be pushed down.
The grill I have xways resting on the hinged sides, and may file locating slots in those side panels.
Your model, has the handles set too low for them to be used as grill mesh locators.
You are owed apologies.
Take care, best regards Colin
Thank you for this. I don't mind being wrong and have someone correct me. Thanks for commenting
Mark, I find that it helps to consider any budget item, whether for bushcraft use or a machine shop tool, to be a kit. It comes with most of the parts you need, but will likely need some additions or modifications to be what you really wanted.
If you add a second set of notches for your high pot stands, outboard of the ones your friend made, it will improve the pot stability for the large pots. The current locations look a bit close together for that size pot.
I am thinking I will cross-corners with an X pot stand. Could make it wider than the stove. Thanks for commenting
I always enjoy your videos. Thank you.
Glad you like them! Thanks for commenting
Mark,
I pulled my stove out again and looked at it carefully.
I found that the handles on both sides do hold the top grate in place...I tried it out.
The handles on the stove wall is smaller then the grate handles.
When you set the grate on the stovetop, you then lift the two handles on the stove inside the handles from the grate.
It is loose, but it keeps the top grate from sliding off the stove!🥰
The First time I used the stove I was wondering about the handles as well, and like you I put it off as a way to carry the stove.
The top grate slid off as I removed the pot.
But now that I watched your video, I pulled my stove out again to look at it, and it occurred to me that these handles are designed to hold the top grate in place.
So to cut the notches was not necessary...
I thought that was a brilliant idea.
And then I figured it out 🥰
Glad it worked for you. My stove is older so they do not work. Thanks for commenting
I tried it also , I think it depends on when or where it was made. My handles miss by about 1/2” . I don’t think quality control is watched well
I did the same thing for the bottom of my stove…I agree that the bottom openings are to large…..so I had taken an aluminum realtor sign, cut it to fit and drilled many smaller holes….it’s light and holds pellets perfectly…love this little stove and been using it for a few years
Great hack. Thanks for commenting
I enjoy watching your videos about this stove, but since I have a 5 inch Firebox stove (and 2 Nanos) I have never felt the need to pick one up. Thanks for the video.
Totally with you on that. This was fun to work on but I would always reach for my Gen2 5" FB before this one. Thanks for commenting
I have my firebox stoves, a regular snd the nano. They are my favs. I have one similar to the one you are reviewing here. It was cheap. It’s large, it’s heavy. It’s wobbly tho. But it’s ok. I prefer my gasification stove for most things that require boiled water. My large firebox stove to grill meat. The nano for hiking cuz it’s so light weight. I use my large firebox at home as a mini BBQ. And the gasification one to boil some rice to go with my meat. It’s nice to cook outside on a warm summer day that I don’t want to heat up the house.
Right on. I use my stoves much the same way. Thanks for commenting
Line the inside with aluminum foil when using a candle if it's dirty or rusty. Makes a big difference to get that light out.
Yes, I can see how that would help. Thanks for commenting
Hello,I’ve just bought the same one under the TOMOUNT brand name,it doesn’t have any of the modifications but I’ll DIY them 👍 I like your ideas.
The first thing I did with my new one was cut my finger - twice! - so sanding down the sharp edges was job no.1
What you say about the carry handles is correct.
Regarding the candle lantern, you could cut a drinks can open and place it inside so the candle reflects off the cans inner surface,then fold it flat each time to store with the the stove.
I haven’t tested it properly yet but it actually seems a really good value bit of kit 👍
Hope you enjoy it. Thanks for commenting
No reply necessary, thank you for sharing.
I have used your stainless steel rule idea (and give you credit for it), but on the top prefer corner to corner X pot supports, accommodates smallest to largest pots/cups.
I was lucky, my stove has tall hinge nuckles, leaving gaps large enough to be able to use ala Firebox sticks (fashioned from ss tongs).
Bought a square, sq meshed grill.
Might drill Trangia burner support holes.
Thank again.
Take care, best regards Colin
Not yet drilled
A thank you is always a good thing, so thank you
nice video
Thanks for commenting
Good idea with the rulers.
Glad you like them! Thanks for commenting
I have this fire box stove….bought mine a few years ago and my handles are taller and I can put my handles through the handles of the grate
Yes, there are a number of different versions out there. Thanks for commenting
Great additions of useful mods.
Thanks Lonnie. Still, it is kind of like trying to make a silk purse from a sow's ear. Can only do so much with it
I have one , it's pretty good
Glad you like it. Thanks for commenting
I bought mine at a surplus place for 25 bucks Canadian
I put a stainless washer behind the split ring to tighten the latch.
Great suggestion. Thanks for commenting
Nice video. Thanks. I have this stove and really enjoy it. It is usually my "campfire" when I go camping. One of the reasons I like to use it with the door open, is so I can feed in longer sticks. I clicked on your link and the stove shown on Amazon shows none of the modifications you mentioned. Also, my stove came with only 1 handle which I assume was for picking it up. To reduce the size of the fire grate, I cut a piece of expanded metal and that has worked well. I do like the idea of burning pellets so I'm going to modify it with the holes you described. I like to use carcoal too and I think the bottom holes would be a good rung for that. You said the holes were 1" apart but how far down from the top are the first holes? I also have a Firebox but I enjoy using this more. I'm wondering if you can lay the large billy down across the pot stand bars to bake with it. I find the pot stand bars used crosswise really annoying with the Firebox. Just a pain to line them up and get them hooked in. Fussy imo. In fact, I've gone back to using a Dutch oven for baking. Weight is not a problem for me and DOs are so much more versatile. In fact, when I used to backpack, no way would I even carry a Firebox for baking. I used a simple twig, alcohol, esbit stove for many many years and that worked super. Would be useful for canoe camping or motorcycle camping though. Thanks again for another great video.
Dutch ovens work much better than anything else. Steve's billy pot oven is for those who don't want to carry the weight. Thanks for commenting
Great job! You can turn over anything and make it work better!
I would like to see a video on good starter gear. Maybe 2 price points. But that would probably call out all the trolls that love to challenge your opinion. Lol.
I try not to feed the trolls😅 Thanks for commenting
Good video.
Thanks for commenting
Mark, I think you made a Essential Stove. I made a stove like this about 12 years ago, out of a foldable charcoal starter. Thanks for all your ideas.
I started looking at the folding charcoal chimneys after making a stove out of a dollar store one a few years. The folders can be kind of expensive. Where did you get yours?
@@MarkYoungBushcraft Mark, I found the folding stove on eBay. If was charcoal starter, made for the Boy Scouts. It seemed it was a great fit for the Boy Scouts. I found this folding stove on Amazon.
camping moon CAMPINGMOON Portable Stainless Steel Charcoal Chimney Starter MT-18
@@thomascronquist1604 Cheaper than I remember them to be. Thanks
Morning Mark! Well, you know me. The only way to make it perfect is to throw it out and get a Firebox.😀. However it is really inexpensive, and I do agree that for someone who rarely camps, or doesn’t want to spend much, it’s hard to say no to this. And honestly, something foldable like that, that could do charcoal isn’t a bad idea. Just not enough surface area.
As for all the people insisting on something that can’t be done, there’s plenty of UA-cam experts out there.
I had many various types of these backpacking wood stoves….to me this one of the best..expensive ones failed by not burning properly without modifications…the mid range ones are too small….this particular size is a perfect, burn’s efficiently if you place a a plate on the bottom with smaller holes for air intake and mine never warped after over 100+ uses (had massive heat with 2 foot flames). Plus I add made side skewer holders to cook skewered meats on the outside side of the fire box..
Only one negative for me and that is the weight…thankfully I’m a bigger person and the weight doesn’t effect me, but it is a little heavy for the size…
I am thinking that the weight is actually lighter, given the size, than say a Firebox stove. Thanks for commenting
nice modifications
Thanks for commenting
Ah, I was wondering what I was going to make trivets out of, now I know, rulers. 😊 thanks.
They work great. Thanks for commenting
Yes Mark you are right its a different model
the handles are not at the same place
and are made higher up.
I appreciate that. Thanks for commenting
I bought this stove in the spring of 2020. By winter of 2020 it was burnt out. To be fair I used the stove heavily, The box itself was warped and a little loose, but was still functional. The mesh top had burnt out.
I just looked at the stove on Amazon US. It has reduced in price by $4 since I last purchased it. Plus it is offered in your choice of the wire mesh top, a grill top, or a pot stand top. It did not have the holes in the sides, but I think that would be a worthy modification. I would use it to support a Trangia.
I would buy the stove again, especially at the $24 asking price today. I would opt for the grill top. But I have migrated to Firebox Stoves. Those are bomb proof and I do not think I will be needing to replace them.
I am sure you will love your Firebox. Thanks for commenting
Nice Stove
Thanks for commenting
I drilled some large 1/2 holes about 3/4 down from the top on the 2 non hinged sides to increase ventilation when using the grill instead of adding pot stands.
Yes, great suggestion. Thanks for commenting
I have the 8 inch large stove. Great for charcoal grilling
Right on. I agree. Thanks for commenting
Get the version with the potstand put the grill on top anything from a cup of water to a gallon of pork and beans
Thanks for commenting
For a pellet grate I cut out a piece from a dollar store cookie sheet and drilled holes in it.
Perfect. Thanks for commenting
Mark i have the smaller stove and you can use the handles for the top grate, but ive seen a bigger model of my small stove and the handles dont reach the top grate. It also think it depends on the factory that made the stove i believe your stove is taller above the wood feeding door than mine, so it can hold more fuel but because of that it lost the use of the handles for the grate.
Good to know. So many versions out there. Thanks for commenting
G'day Mark, those handles; only thing I can think of is push them all the way in to allow the "legs" to spring clip onto the grate from the inside, I assume this is possible since it looks to have pressed out "hinges"; having said that, they dont look long enough for that either, (without further modification anyway), and with your simple notched solution ........ why even bother.
I do like the door feature, but yep for feeding in solid fuel, agree too big a cavity, though for refueling an alcohol burner mid cook, gotta be a good thing.
I wonder if a remote gas stove would fit inside, (door open for the hose and perhaps with it's legs and pot "arms" not fully deployed), for even more options ? @ the very least as a windsheild and as a bonus to funnel the heat and utilise the various pot stand and grill accessories. Cheers Duke.
Dropping the alcohols stove down inside and using the stove as a windshield is a good suggestion.. Thanks for commenting Duke
@@MarkYoungBushcraft I'm actually suggesting a remote stove may well fit through the door too, with perhaps not fully deployed, (spread), legs/arms depending on internal dimensions of the box stove i.e. the legs would be captivated inside, fully deployed or not, and avail the benefits of a windshield, heat funnel and the grill. Being a remote design the canister sits outside, the door open facilitates the hose. Perhaps a stretch, but if it can be done, you needn't carry a specific windshield for a remote job and you have an inherent solid fuel option at the same time. See where I'm coming from ?
I used a couple of wire mesh pieces in my gasification stove. I am going to try it with this stove in order to use wood pellets in it.
Thanks for commenting
Great video my friend new subscriber to you
Glad you enjoyed the video. Thanks for commenting
Instead of the stove, I bought their folding charcoal starter. It had about an inch and a quarter hole in one side. I used a Dremel to bring it up to about 3 inches. It works great. Similar to a rocket stove.
That's a great idea! Thanks for commenting
The earlier version had the handles slip inside to get out of the way of the feed door. The later versions had permanent handles that could swing up to hold the grate handle slots, locking the grate from sliding. I have both stoves.
I appreciate the information. Thanks for commenting
I purchased this stove years ago on eBay. It came wrapped up in this blue plastic. Getting that plastic off was a pain. The stove legs came bent, the seller refunded me $2. Total cost was around $15. As to how the handles work. I thought the same as you. I have a larger, heavier version of this stove. I think I may have both versions of short handles that lock nothing down without a small piece of wire. I looked at the price of this stove linked to Amazon. I did not pay half of what the asking price is for the larger stove. No comparison to the Bushcraft or Firebox stoves. The nice thing about this stove, not much assembly is required.
I recall the blue wrap on some of my other stoves. Real pain is right. Yes, cheap and easy to use but not a Bushcraft Essentials or Firebox. Thanks for commenting
Very nice video. I think you do a great job of being very careful in your comments to avoid being bombastic or unpleasant, and to admit that other people may have different experiences and opinions about the equipment you review. I don't have a folding stove, but I would like to get one soon. Is there a stove you could recommend for, say, $50 or less? Thanks for your efforts in making these videos.
Thank you for your kind words. Other than the one in this video, you may not be able to find a hinged folding stove for $50.00; However, there are a number of collapsible stoves for that price like the Uberleben Flat Pack stove (I have a review). You may want to consider a DIY stove like the Ikea Hobo Stove I have a 3-part video). I do have a number of stove videos that may help you decide.
@@MarkYoungBushcraftThank you!
It works on the smallest original model. Not the larger ones such as what is being demonstrated.
Thanks for commenting
Your handles appear to be installed lower than the ones on my 2 stoves.. You could always fashion a pot hanger out of a coat hanger or something similar.
Good suggestion. Thanks for commenting
The handles on the small stove can be used to stableize the grill. Larger stove not so much
Thanks for commenting
If you wrap some stainless window screen around your grate, it will keep your pellets from falling through and if you make it to where ut's just snug, it will help keep the stove from being so wobbly. And yes, you have to make sure to keep it clean. It is not solid stainless, it is plated carbon steel, which is why they warp so easily. On a budget, these are good little stoves but are going up in price so as to make other options just as viable. Also, I took off that ring and added a piece of wire bent at a double anlge to make it easier to open and close
Was not aware it was plated steel. Nickel? I thought it was low-grade 304 stainless. Thanks
Very nice video, many thanks 😊 👍 in advance. What the different between small and small wood model, any idea 💡🤔?
Since I don't have the other versions I can only suggest it is size. Thanks for commenting
Mark, have you ever used hand sanitizer to start/light wood pellets? Thank you
Actually, pretty much all I use now. Cheap and effective. Thanks for commenting
@@MarkYoungBushcraft thanks! By the way, I ordered the stove in the video yesterday and it arrived this morning. Looking forward to trying wood pellets out and making mods to the stove.
Yours is the old version the new one has longer handles that can be used to lock the top trivet
In fact theres deferent versions from deferent suppliers that vary in some measurements
Yes, so I have found. Thanks for commenting
the new ones of these are a lot different as you said, with the handle position and the added holes. they are a bargain for the weight and price you pay, and simple to set up it just pops open. other types for ultralight and such you have to put together every time you stop to cook. all in all its a bargain for the 15-20 dollars they cost and the years you will get out of it
I agree, this is a high value item for sure. Thanks for commenting
Lastly I purchased an extra mesh grill with smaller holes that I can set at any level including right on top of the large grate at the bottom.
Right on. Thanks for commenting
It works on the 5x5 ,looks like you have the 7x7 so if you check the handles on the 5x5 are on the sides not the front
Best explanation yet. Thanks for commenting
Handles work on the small size stove, not the larger ones
Good to know. Thanks for commenting
There are 2 versions of this stove. Another version has the handles mounted higher up towards the top edge of the stove. This version will somewhat lock the grille in place. Careful of which stove you order!
Good point. Thanks for commenting
It does seem a little clunky. I like the round wood/gasification stoves. Obviously a larger wood stove does have it’s place. ✌️🇺🇸🇨🇦✌️
A folding stove has the benefit of being easier to pack but I have never had a circular stove warp. I just have to find the right pot to store it in. Thanks for commenting
@@MarkYoungBushcraft I have the Ohuhu gasification stove, it fits perfectly into an MSR 775ml pot.
@@redsorgum On of my very first videos is on the Lixada version and my MSR 775ml pot
The handles fit inside of the grill , not so much lock but stand for larger pans to sit on and let the flame up ,but maybe you have a different model
Yes, I have a different model. I have an update video if interested. Thanks for commenting
I have a large one and a small one. On the large one the handles are not long enough. On the small one they are.
That helps explain things. Thanks for commenting
How about using metal tent stakes in the round "handles" to the ground to keep the stove from moving around? ? ???? Or tie it down with wires on a metal table. Or, hang it from a metal camp fire cooker tripod. Or hang from a tree. Or attach it to your backpack?
Suspending the stove from a tree may be worth looking at when the snow is deep. Thanks for commenting
@@MarkYoungBushcraft you're welcome.
Those handles work with the grill, not with this griddle. The grill is bigger.
so this is all that came with my stove. Thanks for commenting
I have an version which is like yours, handles are useless, bought it two weeks ago
Thanks for commenting
I removed the handles. No use for them. They don't lock my grill on either.
Mine are going as well. They just get caught in stuff. Thanks for commenting
Or, how to make a silk purse from a sows ear. Good job but I have a cheap stove that works out of the box.
Thanks for commenting
Those bars make things very unstable 13:00 .
Thanks for commenting
My friend you drilled holes, cut notches and had to bend a latch... Plus a different grate. You did the best you could with a poorly designed item. Don't let it bother! :)
No worries. Trying my best. Thanks for commenting
looks like it rusted
There was some rust despite oiling after use. Not good quality steel. Thanks for commenting
i know its a bit late, i was looking on camping stoves and watching your video before finding what was wrong with your with this video ua-cam.com/video/HXNP3NrIRLE/v-deo.html
Yes, different model than mine. Thanks for commenting
Hi Mark, Another great video I see & just last year, I bought that EXACT version of stove but in the Redcamp Large size !!
I will send you a picture but whoever said, them handles can be used for stabilizer arms for the grill are MISTAKEN.
My stove is new, just last year & in the picture u will EASILY SEE what's what.
I bought it for charcoal grilling in my backyard.
I live inside town & my neighbor's are VERY picky & whine ALOT about fires & smoke.......
Everyone's A Critic.
💯🙄
Thanks for commenting Derek